The NHS in the South East has delivered over 191,000 vaccinations against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), contributing to the more than one million RSV jabs administered nationally since the programme’s historic launch this autumn.

The milestone reflects the NHS’s proactive approach to protecting vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and older adults aged 75 to 79, from the risks of RSV, which can lead to serious respiratory illnesses like pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis. This effort forms part of a broader strategy to prevent a “tripledemic” of RSV, COVID-19, and flu this winter.

James Hempsted-Kingham, Director of Primary Care & Public Health Commissioning for the region, has praised the tireless efforts of NHS teams in the South East and across the country, saying: “It’s a testament to the hard work of NHS staff that we’ve reached this incredible milestone of over one million RSV vaccinations delivered, including more than 191,000 in the South East. These vaccines are a vital tool in protecting vulnerable individuals from serious illness and reducing winter pressures on our health services.

”I’m also thrilled to share with you all that the NHS has delivered over 2.6 million flu vaccinations and 1.6 million covid vaccinations in the South East so far this year, ensuring that those who are eligible are protected this winter.”

Pregnant women in the South East are being encouraged to receive the RSV vaccine from 28 weeks into pregnancy, as it is the best way to protect their baby from getting seriously ill with RSV. The vaccine boosts the mother’s immune system to produce more antibodies against the virus – protecting the baby from the day they are born.

Women should speak to their maternity service about receiving their RSV vaccine. Alternatively, pregnant women can get vaccinated by request at their local GP practice, while older adults will be invited by their local GP practice.

Dr Rachel Mearkle, consultant in health protection with UKHSA, and regional lead on vaccine preventable disease in the South East, said: “It is encouraging news that so many are already vaccinated against RSV.

“These two new RSV vaccine programmes – one for pregnant women and another for older adults as they turn 75 – offer huge opportunities to prevent severe illness in those most vulnerable to RSV, helping to protect lives as well as ease NHS winter pressures.

“Despite infecting around 90% of children within the first two years of life, RSV is not something that many people are aware of. It typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can lead to severe lung infections like pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis.

“Some of the main symptoms for children of a serious infection due to RSV include a cough that gets worse, shortness of breath and difficulty feeding. You should seek medical help if you’re worried your child is seriously unwell and further advice can be found on the NHS website.

“Remember that this time of year when seasonal infections are common, if you are unwell with symptoms such as a high temperature, cough, and feeling tired and achy, you should try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. Washing your hands regularly and using tissues can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.”

For more information on RSV, please visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv/